InFocus
Partnering to Keep Our Schools Safe
Over the past several weeks, we have communicated with you regarding multiple incidents involving prohibited items being brought to school. While each situation has been addressed promptly and in accordance with our safety protocols, we want to take a moment to reinforce an important shared responsibility.
In each of these recent incidents, there has been no known or credible threat to harm others, and the items were not used or displayed in a manner intended to cause injury. In all cases, the items were promptly secured and addressed in accordance with our safety procedures. Nonetheless, bringing prohibited items to school is taken very seriously, as it undermines the sense of safety in our schools and disrupts the learning environment.
The safety of our students and staff depends on a strong partnership between school and home. We are asking for your support in having age-appropriate conversations with your child about school expectations and the serious consequences of bringing prohibited or unsafe items to school.
As part of that partnership, we encourage families to:
- Remind students of the importance of making safe and responsible choices
- Periodically check backpacks and personal belongings, particularly for younger students
- Reinforce that any item that could cause harm or disruption has no place in school
Bringing prohibited or unsafe items to school is a serious violation of our Code of Conduct and School Board Policy 218.1 (Weapons), and will result in disciplinary action, which may include consequences up to and including expulsion depending on the circumstances.
We also want to reassure you that our schools continue to follow established safety procedures, and we take every report or concern seriously. Students are encouraged to speak with a trusted adult if they see or hear something concerning.
We understand that these conversations can be difficult, but they are an important part of keeping our school community safe, supportive, and focused on learning.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support.